It’s a yearly tradition, but this time around things will be different for people who go to see The Nutcracker. This year, the performance of the classic tale is a unique version set in Russia during the imperialist era in the late 19th century (the time of its first production).
“In this production, Clara’s fantasy takes place in the Sugar Plum Fairy’s Palace,” says Wendy Vernon, ballet mistress for the local dancers involved in The Nutcracker. “With the Russian influence of the era the production is set in, the costumes are all very glamorous and represent that time well.”
The local dancers in the production, which features The Alberta Ballet, first had their auditions this past June and have practiced every Sunday since the beginning of September.
“There are 50 students chosen from 15 local dance academies that range from ages seven to 13,” explains Vernon. “These children have all been challenged with the complexity of the choreography, and have done extremely well meeting that challenge. It’s really neat to see the excitement that builds in the local children performing as the performances approach. After all, The Nutcracker is all about a child’s imagination and the excitement and wonders of Christmas.”
And, of course, no production of The Nutcracker would be complete without the music. This time around, there will be a live orchestra courtesy of the Victoria Symphony.
“The fact that there is a live orchestra makes the music filled with more energy,” says Vernon. “The Nutcracker is a production where anyone can find something in it to enjoy. It’s a production that triggers that warm feeling of Christmas”.
And even though it’s set in a different time and place this year, the performance will still conjure up the same Christmas-y results.
“Whether or not you are a dance enthusiast, this production of The Nutcracker is a must-see because there is something in it for everyone,” she says. “Watching it gives the viewer two hours of feeling the magic of Christmas, and brings adults back to childhood feelings of Christmas.”
The Nutcracker
Friday, December 2 – Sunday, December 4
Royal Theatre
rmts.bc.ca